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In the event of a fire, properly installed and maintained smoke alarms will provide an early warning alarm to your household. This alarm could save your own life and those of your loved ones by providing the chance to escape.
Then it's doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarms due to cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead, clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm may have to be moved to a new location.
About 8 to 10 years, after which time they should be replaced. Like most electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write the purchase date with a marker on the inside of your unit. That way, you'll know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacement.
In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are the best safety devices you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home from fire.
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires beging late at at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas.
Also, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or above eye level on the walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Many hardware, home supply or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. If you are unsure where to buy one in your community, call your local fire department (on a nonemergency telephone number) and they will privide you with some suggestions. Some fire department offer smoke alarms for little or no cost.
Not a bit. In most cases, all you will need is a screwdriver. Many brands are self-adhesive and will automatically stick to the wall or ceiling where they are placed. However, be sure to follow the directions from the manufacturer because each brand is different. If you are uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend for help. Some departments actually will install a smoke alarm in your home for you. Call your local fire department (again, on a nonemergency telephone number) if you have problems installing a smoke alarm.
Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember:
Some smoke alarms are considered to be "hard wired." This means they are connected to the household electical system and may or may not have battery backup. It's important to test every smoke alarm monthly and replace the batteries with new ones at least once a year.
